Even though the skies were grey and the pavements damp, this week at ECS Scotland was full of light, laughter and language learning. Here’s what we’ve been up to at 17 Young Street and beyond…
🕯️ Winter evenings, soft lights and a full week of courses
We may be in the quieter season but the school has been busy with students taking Speaking & Listening classes, 1:1 lessons and combination courses — including tailored support for IELTS and OET preparation, plus focused help with work-related English (presentations were a big theme this week!).
When the work was done, it was time to unwind — a cosy pub visit on Tuesday added a social spark, complete with candles, conversation and a table full of language learners.
🥃 Tour and tasting at Holyrood Distillery
On Wednesday, students and teachers wrapped up warm and headed down to Holyrood Distillery, tucked just beside Arthur's Seat. An energetic guide led us through the whisky-making process — from grain to glass — and helped us explore some of the science (and vocabulary!) behind distilling.
We got to see the beautiful copper stills, sniff different botanicals for the gins and of course, sample a gin and their new whiskies along the way. A real taste of Scotland — and a great way to practise new adjectives, too.
“Smooth, smoky, floral, peppery… it was a language lesson and a tasting in one!”
📚 Rainy days and quiet creativity
While students were studying, Flora was busy filming reels and creating social content for upcoming courses. Jane spent Sunday afternoon exploring The King’s Gallery’s exhibition on Renaissance drawing — and even found a new book for the English with Sketching library.
Meanwhile, snowdrops are starting to appear in gardens around the city, offering a quiet promise of spring.
🔥 Fires, flavours and February warmth
By the end of the week, the weather had turned colder — a mix of drizzle, wind and low temperatures — but there were still moments of brightness: a candlelit pint, a glowing copper still, a hot cup of coffee in the staff kitchen.
These small pleasures help make the learning days feel warm and welcoming, even when it’s grey outside.
📅 What’s next?
Our February courses are filling up — and there’s still time to join.
Late winter is a quieter season in Edinburgh, when darker evenings and grey skies make it easier to focus on your studies. That's why it's a good time to study, reset your routines and build confidence in English speaking, step by step.
Whether you’re interested in a restorative week on our English with Yoga & Wellbeing course or want to develop your professional skills on our Communication at Work course, February is a great month to start something new.
